How to Identify Black Neon Tetra

To identify Black Neon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

The body is generally silvery-grey to olive-brown, with a distinctive broad, iridescent black horizontal stripe running from the operculum (gill cover) to the caudal peduncle. Above this black stripe, there is a narrower, iridescent white to golden stripe. The fins are typically translucent, sometimes with a faint yellowish or reddish tint, especially in the caudal fin. The eyes often have a reddish tint.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Two prominent horizontal stripes: a broad black stripe and a narrower iridescent white/golden stripe above it., Small adipose fin., Relatively deep body compared to some other Hyphessobrycon species.

Dorsal fin

Single, relatively tall, and triangular, typically translucent.

Tail fin

Forked (homocercal), translucent, sometimes with a reddish or yellowish tint.

Pectoral fin

Small, clear, and fan-shaped.

Distinctive fins

Presence of a small, fleshy adipose fin between the dorsal and caudal fins, characteristic of characins.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration and Stripe Pattern

   Look for the distinct broad black horizontal stripe with a thinner, iridescent white or golden stripe directly above it. This is the most reliable identifier.

2. 2

   Body Shape

   Observe the relatively deep, compressed body shape, which distinguishes it from more slender tetra species.

3. 3

   Fin Structure

   Note the presence of a small adipose fin, a characteristic of the Characidae family, and the typically translucent fins.

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